UAE Suspends Trade with Iran Amid Missile Strikes

By David Okafor

The United Arab Emirates has suspended trade with Iran following renewed missile attacks from Tehran, according to reports from the Associated Press. This move represents a significant escalation in tensions, as the UAE previously accounted for over 30% of Iran's imports, valued at approximately $21 billion in 2024, based on World Trade Organization data.

Prior to this decision, the UAE had already taken several diplomatic actions against Iran, including closing its embassy in Tehran and withdrawing its diplomatic mission. These measures were part of a broader response to what the UAE describes as 'brutal and unprovoked Iranian aggression.' Since the beginning of the conflict, Iran has launched over 1,400 ballistic missiles and drones targeting UAE civilian sites and infrastructure.

The UAE's defensive measures have been extensive. According to the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority, 186 ballistic missiles have been launched by Iran, with 172 intercepted. Additionally, 812 drones have been detected, with 755 neutralized. The attacks have resulted in three fatalities and 68 minor injuries within the UAE.

Iran's aggression has also affected maritime security, with at least 21 direct attacks on commercial vessels reported since late February. These attacks have resulted in more than 10 crew fatalities and left 20,000 seafarers stranded, severely disrupting energy markets and food security due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.